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Aman Summer Palace, Beijing
Orient Express
If you’re looking for a trip to the Orient, the Aman Summer Palace in Beijing should be first on your itinerary. Simple and elegant, the Aman Summer Palace is a trip through time, with a traditional courtyard style reminiscent of the aesthetics from the glory days of the Ming and Qing dynasties.
There are 51 rooms and suites, all featuring period furniture like intricately carves screens, bamboo blinds and clay tiles. The dining experience is extraordinary, from the centuries-old tea ceremony to the selection of classics like the Szechuan Chicken and Peking Duck.
1 Gongmenqian Street, Summer Palace, Beijing, PRC 100091
amansummerpalace@aman.com
Slim Picks
Although giving is truly what makes the season bright, the holidays can also be a great time to love yourself. Indulge in the advanced Radio Frequency (RF) Treatment, a non-surgical procedure for cellulite reduction, collagen stimulation and tightening the skin. The machine works using thermal waves to target fat cells, with the Exilis Elite dual energy delivery that causes the cells to shrink by speeding up metabolic activity.
The treatment is available at Dr. Hopee Solano’s clinic, where she offers a wide range of services. We’ve never been disappointed with an experience with Dr. Hopee, who addresses any questions and concerns you might have before the procedure, and her staff.
Rm. 316, Cebu Doctors Medical Arts Building 2, (032) 53 8358
[Facebook] A Touch of Hope
SHARI QUIMBO
Managing Editor
Hair Today
Few feelings are quite as enjoyable as walking out of the salon with freshly colored hair—what’s not as fun, though, is finding the time to touch up your roots. Thankfully, Piandre introduced lived in color this year, a technique that brings different tones to your hair color for a natural sun-kissed look. There’s the option for darker roots that gradually fade into light ends (a modern, softer take on the ombre look), or lighter shades to frame and flatter the face.
Oakridge Business Park, AS Fortuna Street, Banilad, Mandaue City
(032) 412 1824
Gateway Hotel, Hong Kong
Getaway Gifts
It’s no surprise that Hong Kong remains one of Cebu’s favorite destinations for quick weekend trips—the city offers so many experiences, from food and culture, to shopping and recreation. Of course, staying at the Gateway Hotel will give your holiday a bit of an edge.
Part of the Marco Polo Hotels group and located centrally in Harbour City in bustling Tsim Sha Tsui, Gateway Hotel features a modern, sleek and artsy design that creates a boutique hotel feel with a five-star twist. There’s also a complimentary mini-bar, a Handy Phone with unlimited data connectivity, and a chocolate cake at Three on Canton that I’m maybe planning my next trip for.
No. 13 Canton Road, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong
gateway@marcopolohotels.com
CARLO RIVERA
Features Editor
The new Crimzone at the Crimson Mactan Resort
Beach Blitz
It’s always been on the wish list to spend Christmas Eve by the beach, and Crimson Mactan’s villa is just the right place to do it. The bed is perfect for sleeping in, and the view is picture-perfect.
For when you do feel like going outside, the plunge pool and infinity pool will make it feel like summer in December, while Crimzone will keep the little ones happy throughout the day. And of course, there’s the amazing selection of tapas from Chef Chele Gonzales at Enye—this could be the best noche buena ever!
Seascapes Resort Town, Soong, Lapu-Lapu City
crimsonhotel.com/mactan
If the Shoe Fits
The recent trunk show of Spectre Manila in Cebu introduced me to the Loake Shoemakers, the British shoemaker with a Royal Warrant of Appointment by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. The impressive lineage stands out really stands out, but this pair does that even on its own. With its polished leather and intricate details, it’s the perfect footwear for special occasions.
916 Luna Mencias, Mandaluyong, Metro Manila
[Instagram] @spectremnl
Best Laid Plans
Every year, Tita Witty releases her unconventional and hilarious planner. With relatable quotes (like hugot lines from One More Chance) and weight-loss pointers, it’s the perfect companion for 2018.
www.wittywillsavetheworld.com
MELO ESGUERRA
Editor-at-Large
Dedon Island Resort
JANET ALFAFARA
Copyeditor
EHDS JAVIER
Artistic Director
The portable Polaroid ZIP Instant Photoprinter
ROMERO VERGARA
Makeup artist
A limited supply of Dior shirts! I am a big fan because they’re comfortable, and it will always look good on you.
Gia Mayola
Editorial Assistant
Anyone who knows me, knows about my extensive love for boots. This year, Gucci came out with the most beautiful pair that I’ve ever seen. This pair is made of Bordeaux leather and features the house’s stripes with dragon embroidery. A great statement piece, this boot’s pointed toe can instantly make you look sleek and sophisticated.
KYLA ESTOYA
Writer
My holiday wishlist is simple: a Moleskine Watercolor Sketchbook. I’ve been visiting Lazada.ph almost everyday staring at it and I never had the guts to buy it. I really think Santa should give it to me as a present. If he can’t, I’ll stare at the website again.
TJ DELIMA
Graphic Artist
After my 6 year old Canon camera died recently I’ve decided that my holiday wish list is the new Sony a7s II camera. It’s small, easy to carry and it can shoot 4k videos. Very useful since I also shoot videos for work.
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